Ideas for Landscaping With Cement Paver Blocks

Cement pavers make an attractive and safe pool deck.

With their easy installation and low maintenance, pavers are an ideal landscaping material for a variety of projects. In particular, cement paver blocks are a good choice for your landscaping needs because they're budget-friendly and come in a wide range of colors, shapes and sizes to complement any yard or garden. You can use cement pavers for virtually any paved surface that you wish to create for your landscape, so you can get as creative as you want.

Herringbone Patio

Cement pavers are an ideal material for building a patio because they come in a variety of colors and shapes that allow you to create a striking look. If you want to make a statement in your yard, use cement pavers in a herringbone pattern. To create the look, place each course of pavers at a 90 degree angle, rotating the direction of each successive course to create a zigzag effect. A 90 degree herringbone paver patio definitely draws the eye, so the pattern may be too much if you have a small yard. If so, opt for a 45 degree herringbone design, which is a bit more subtle.

Faux Brick Driveway

To give your driveway a more decorative look, cement pavers are an ideal alternative to a traditional poured cement slab. Because they come in so many colors, sizes and shapes, you can create a custom look for your driveway. Cement pavers are actually stronger than poured cement and aren't prone to cracking since the joints provide flexibility. For a warm, welcoming look at the front of your home, opt for rectangular cement pavers in a reddish brown color so they resemble bricks. Your driveway will have the look of a brick surface, but using cement pavers will ensure that you don't break the bank on your repaving project.

Nonslip Pool Surround

Choosing the right material for your pool surround not only provides an attractive look for your landscape but helps make your pool area safer. Cement pavers are an ideal option for your pool patio, because their textured surface offers effective traction even when wet, so you don't have to worry about your children slipping and falling beside the pool. Pavers are also highly durable and do not fade when exposed to chlorine. If you have a saltwater pool, these pavers are also salt resistant so you don't have to worry about corrosion. With the wide array of cement paver styles and colors, you can easily find a pattern that complements your pool's design. Try mixing pavers in different colors and shapes to create a one-of-a-kind pattern for your pool surround.

Decorative Garden Edging

Whether you want a decorative edge for your garden bed, walkway or around the perimeter of your lawn, cement pavers provide a finished look for a variety of landscaping surfaces. For walkway or garden path borders, flat or level pavers work best so you don't have to worry about your family or guests tripping over the edging. However, if you plan to use edging around your lawn or garden beds, a raised design usually offers a more attractive look. As the name implies, these cement pavers are elevated above soil level, so they not only add a decorative look to your landscape but prevent mulch from washing away and help improve drainage. Choose cement pavers in a shade that complements your plantings – neutral shades such as gray or tan are ideal options because they blend with most landscapes.

About the Author

Based in New York City, Jennifer Blair has been covering all things home and garden since 2001. Her writing has appeared on BobVila.com, World Lifestyle, and House Logic. Blair holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing Seminars from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.